Bench Press

Watch out. That person who just fragged you in Counter-Strike might’ve been using eye-tracking software to do so. COGAIN, an EU-funded network of excellence on Communication by Gaze Interaction. While most eye-tracking software is used simply for typing on an on-screen keyboard, COGAIN enhances eye-tracking capability by providing a real-world gaming experience. Aimed at helping those disabled with motor neuron disease and cerebral palsy, COGAIN’s eye-tracking software allows users to play computer games with just the movement of their eyes. Their innovative technology uses commercially available eye-trackers which use cameras to monitor the gamer’s eyes, and COGAIN’s intuitive interface allows for a user-friendly experience.

Glancing to the left or right will turn the virtual character in that direction, for example, while staring at the centre of the screen will make the avatar run forwards. Because the software is independent of the game itself, it can be used to play virtually any game that requires mouse and keyboard inputs.

Currently, COGAIN has pre-programmed 12 different gesture sequences which will activate different keyboard and mouse events. More commands can be programmed if the user wishes. COGAIN hopes their free software will be fast enough to play real-time 3D games.

COGAIN’s eye-tracking software is particularly refreshing because it demonstrates how technology can impact and aid the disabled. As technology evolves and progresses, it’s important that we not only think up what sort of applications we can adapt technology to we should be mindful of people with disabilities and allow them to have as rich a computer experience as others.